We live in an incredibly fast paced, digital world. These days, stories of companies being hacked are, unfortunately, commonplace. We have been hearing stories of major hacks against large corporations, retail chains and even banks, and most recently, Sony. News of the Sony hack might seem as just another breech. However, as the smoke clears, we find ever more evidence that the hack perpetrated on Sony Pictures on 11/24 was anything but usual. These types of attacks highlight the vital importance of maintaining top-notch cybersecurity and Rethink Associates is here with the details.

What Happened?

At approximately 11am, on Monday, November 24th, emails began circulating around to Sony Pictures employees, instructing them not to use their computers, corporate email accounts, or cell phone wifi access. As this news traveled it became evident hackers had seized an estimated 11,000 gigabytes of data, potentially including financial information, personal passwords, passport and visa info of cast and crew in addition to information about Sony’s IT systems. As Sony searched to identify the hackers, a flood of information had already hit the web, including the movies Mr. Turner, Still Alice, Fury, & Annie, which have not yet been released in theatres. As the investigation into the leaked files continued, the details only became worse, turning up salary negotiations,medical information, & employee criminal background checks, in addition to the script for an unreleased pilot written by Breaking Bad creator Vince Gilligan.

Sadly, this is just the tip of the iceberg. At this point, the Sony Pictures hack is easily the worst corporate hack in all of recorded history.

How Can I Protect My Business?

Well, you can begin by not ticking off North Korea. Sony has speculated publicly that the hack might in fact be retaliation for the upcoming release of The Interview, a comedy starring James Franco and Seth Rogan who play characters who attempt to assassinate North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Of course, the odds that your business has threatened or offended the DPRK is obviously quite low, however, that doesn’t mean these kinds of attacks can't happen to you. If your cybersecurity isn’t currently being professionally monitored and updated, your business may have serious vulnerabilities you might not even know about.

Protect Your Business With Cybersecurity From Working Nets

At Rethink Associates, we know that handling the cybersecurity for your business while actually keeping that business running can seem impossible, especially in the daunting face of cyber-attacks against much larger businesses. Outsourcing your IT can give you peace of mind and allow you to take care of the things that are important for your company. Rethink Associates is a Republic based IT Service and Security company that services small businesses throughout SW Missouri. We’re always on top of emerging cybersecurity trends and threats so you don’t have to be.

To talk to someone about managed IT for your business, give us a call at (417) 334-6609. We’d be happy to assist you with your professional business networking needs.

While a lot of retailers offer basically the same stuff at basically the same prices on Black Friday, Best Buy had quite a few advertised deals that were head and shoulders above the pack, and you can get them right now.

Of course, there are plenty of other Black Friday deals that are already live around the web, so be sure to watch our page for more!!

With school in full swing, it's time to check out area computer sales. Springfield retailers offer a variety of great devices for students. As you browse, don’t forget to check out the laptop and desktop offerings from Rethink Associates and other local retail shops.

Laptop Sales to Check Out

HP EliteBook Folio 9480m: The latest from HP is ultra-thin with a thickness of under 1 inch, and is the perfect size for carrying in a backpack with a 14-inch screen. Do your schoolwork anywhere with its mobile broadband options with 3G and 4G LTE capabilities.

Lenovo B50: Want a new laptop without the expensive price tag? This Lenovo is a killer deal. Pairing a 15.6" Touchscreen, Windows 8.1 and 4GB of Meemory, this little Lenovo can get the job done. We have already set several customers up with these, and they love them!.

Dutiful Desktops

Apple iMac: With up to a 1-terabyte hard drive, 8 GB of RAM and a 27-inch monitor, the iMac combines the tower and computer monitor into a single, space-saving system. The included iWork software is compatible with Microsoft Office programs.

Asus M70AD-US003S: The M70AD is a powerhouse with a very fast solid-state hybrid drive (SSHD), built-in uninterruptible power supply and the ability to support older digital media. It also comes with Qi and near-fieldd communication (NFC) charging capabilities so you can charge and connect your phone to the computer at the same time.

Best Tablets for Students

Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0: Take notes in class with ease with the tablet’s built-in S Pen. The Galaxy Note 8.0 is small enough that you can hold it in one hand, but the screen is large enough to make reading comfortable. With the ability to run two apps side-by-side, you can take notes and follow along in your e-textbook at the same time.

ASUS Transformer Book T100TA: ASUS combines what you like the best about tablets and laptops, and eliminates compatibility issues, with the Transformer Book. This laptop is a hybrid tablet that runs all the Windows programs you like and comes with Microsoft Office, Home & Student 2013.

As you shop around for new back-to-school gadgets, don’t forget to supplement them with items like wireless headsets and a USB hub that allows you to connect all your devices.

When looking into computer sales, Rethink is a great place to find refurbished products that work like brand new systems. Rethink Associates offers refurbished systems, like MacBook Pros and iMacs, including the Sandy Bridge i5.

During the school year, keep Rethink Associates's Phone Number handy in case you need computer repair. Springfield is our neighborhood and we’re always happy to help with any of your laptop or desktop issues.